Conrad Unfortunately for yourself you are trying to analyse a tradition of which you are not part. A traditional singer or musician must produce music from his heart not from his head. Traditional performers will rank their songs or music according to their own preference.

There is a process of evolution so that only the best survives. The problem with collectors and observers from outside the tradition is that they often insist on superimposing their values from the outside.

As a musician rather than a singer I see great similarities in Orange songs. In many cases the melodies are pure Irish. Also I have had the pleasure of spending some time in a Loyalist friend of mine's house with him singing rebel songs to my accompanyment.

Finally and Frankly in traditional music the final choice of song/tune is with the singer/player. Once you go professional the choice is with the paying public.